Albany, OR. — The Albany Fire Department responded to Bryant Park late Tuesday night after reports of a man and woman in distress near the Willamette River.
Crews were dispatched at 10:06 p.m. on Feb. 10 after receiving information that at least one person was down a river embankment. In response, Albany Fire deployed two Rescue Watercraft (RWC), three ambulances and 13 firefighters to the scene.
One patient was located on the bank of the Willamette River and transported to a local hospital for observation.
Water rescue personnel entered the river at Bowman Park and searched upstream toward Bryant Park. During the search, responders located a woman and her dogs down a steep embankment along the river.
Before moving the woman, firefighters secured the dogs. Rescue crews then placed the woman onto a rescue watercraft and transported her to waiting EMS personnel. Officials said there was no safe exit point from the river at that location other than climbing back up the embankment. The dogs were able to make their way back into the park on their own.
Battalion Chief Ben Cooper noted the added risks associated with nighttime water rescues.
“Any water response, particularly at night, carries significant risk for our personnel,” Cooper said. “The situation is further complicated by swift currents and cold-water temperatures.”
The Willamette River was measured at 46 degrees at the time of the rescue. Officials said cold water incapacitation can occur within 10 to 15 minutes of immersion, potentially leading to loss of muscle control.
Albany Fire deploys multiple watercraft during such incidents, designating a primary rescue craft along with additional safety craft to protect rescue personnel.
Fire officials emphasized that river conditions can be hazardous and urged the public to research and understand recreation areas before venturing near the water.
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